“I had wanted to take this course since my early days at Tripepi Smith, so I’m glad I now have it under my belt,” said Saara. “The course covered pensions, affordable housing, waste management and everything in between, broadening my understanding of the issues our clients face every day. I am confident that this experience, thanks to the ACC-OC, UCI and Tripepi Smith, will help me better serve my public agency clients.”

The program educated Saara and Sara on fundamental issues in local governance that are fundamental to assuming the role of an elected official. Topics included taxes, land-use planning, affordable housing, economic development, transportation, pensions, homelessness and sober living.

Sara commented, “Being better immersed in local issues at Tripepi Smith means better understanding and serving our Tripepi Smith VIPs. I have revisited my public agency clients with a new appreciation for all they manage to make our system work, and work well.”

Multiple subject matter experts led discussions on laws, practices, processes and regulations involved in local government from February 28 to March 27, 2020. The first two classes were held on the UCI campus but went virtual following the Coronavirus outbreak in early March.

“UCI’s Public Policy Academy has become a standard training in our Tripepi Smith ‘Always Be Learning’ toolkit for all team members, and I’m glad two of our rockstars have completed it,” said Co-Founder and Chief Financial Officer Nicole Smith. “As is the case with all Tripepi Smith educational investments, the academy expands on information that takes our work product from good to great.”